]]>Finally we are getting a break in the weather, and hopefully it shapes up to be a beautiful spring and a long summer for us Albertan's. I am sure many of you share my feelings that there were days where the winter just didn't seem to have an end.

Our site staff and trades felt the same way. We exceeded every budget amount that accounts for our heating and hoarding needs. It made any kind of exterior work that much more complicated and that much more time consuming. Unfortunately, we can see this 'brutal' winter we just had as the main reason behind many of our delays in getting our spring possessions in place. That said, we are looking good for the month of June with many of our homebuyers finally getting the keys to start new lives in their very own Avi Urban homes.

These are exciting times. The Block, after a long construction cycle, is finally coming together and looking absolutely beautiful. Experiencing the light and openness of the courtyard is a joy for me, and hopefully will be for all the people that believed in our vision for the development. Walking through many of the completed homes I can see the light streaming through the windows, and the views from some of the upper units is truly amazing. What a unique and innovative building.

Our customers in Sawyer Silverado are also nearing possession, with our first building getting the finishing touches and landscaping before homeowners move in at the end of June. The second building is well on its way and should be completed in a couple months. If all goes well, we should see the entire development, including the third and final building, nearing completion by late fall. I can't wait to see the landscaping come together here. The tree count is huge and will hopefully result in an urban forest situated between all three buildings for all the homeowners to share and enjoy.

Other developments are also getting their final touches as well. Although we were hampered by the rain, our hardworking landscapers and exterior finish crews are tidying up the loose ends on the final phase of our Victoria Cross townhomes in Currie Barracks and getting going on completing our development at Prospect Rise. By month end we should be all done up there, still leaving the entire summer to enjoy the accomplishment.

Our other developments are also well underway, and with construction going hard, we will be releasing quick possession homes in the very near future. Combine this with three new developments coming online, and there are amazing things going on at Avi Urban.

]]>With home possessions now occuring every month here at these new Calgary Townhomes, there is a lot of work being done behind the scenes making sure everything goes smoothly. Any changes that are required to be made and facilitating in turning over the keys to our new home owners is handled by our Customer Relations Representative Tara L.

Meet: Tara L

What is your favorite part of your job? I love many aspects of my job but my favorite would be meeting all my home owners on possession day and giving them the keys to their new home.

In your opinion what make Avi Urban stand out from the competition? The overall projects from exterior finishes to landscaping courtyards. All the little extras that make you enjoy looking out your window.

Last movie you watched? That would be Frozen.. with my girls.

What's your favorite past time? I enjoy water sports such as wake boarding, wake surfing, tubing or paddle boarding. Sitting on a boat tanning and drinking beer is great too! I also like to golf and play softball.

If you could have one super power what would it be? To rewind time.

Say you won the lottery tomorrow... What would you do? I would buy the house of my dreams in Calgary and another on a lake. Then take my kids on vacation. I hope this lottery I win is pretty big!

It's been really fun getting to know you and work with you Tara. Kudos to you and all your hard work, you are a valuable part of the team that is making Edison a great place to call home!

]]>http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/edison-walden-meet-tara-l/feed/0http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Tara7.jpgSawyer Silverado: First Homeowners Moving In!http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/sawyer-silverado-first-homeowners-moving/
http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/sawyer-silverado-first-homeowners-moving/#commentsTue, 27 May 2014 16:22:40 +0000http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/?post_type=blog&p=3645It's a seriously exciting moment for all of the awesome homeowners at Sawyer Silverado!

]]>It’s a seriously exciting moment for all of the awesome homeowners at Sawyer Silverado – the first possession letters have gone out, and homeowners will be moving in June!

The homeowners in Building One will start taking possession at the end of June, with future possessions to happen in the coming months. After months of construction, hundreds of trades on site, and thousands of tons of concrete poured, it's a momentous occassion and we're so excited for our homeowners! Letters to homeowners on the first floor of Building One have been sent out, with the other floors to follow soon thereafter. It'll be great to have homeowners moving in one floor at a time, so the homeowners on each floor can get to know each other between moving couches and boxes.

As a homeowner at Sawyer, there are some things you'll need to get organized before you move in. This includes calling your lawyer to set up an appointment to sign documents, connecting with your financing representative, and setting up service installations (like electricity and cable/internet). We've provided a checklist included with your letter to help you through this process. For the first floor homeowners, you won't need to book the elevator, but this will change for homeowners on the upper floors.

]]>http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/sawyer-silverado-first-homeowners-moving/feed/0http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Sawyer-29-of-31.jpgThe Block: First Move-Ins Start in Junehttp://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/block-first-move-ins-start-june/
http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/block-first-move-ins-start-june/#commentsMon, 26 May 2014 17:25:13 +0000http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/?post_type=blog&p=3633The first possessions at The Block are happening next month!

]]>It’s an exciting moment that our homeowners have been waiting for – the first possessions are happening next month!

With major construction and hundreds of trades and suppliers on site, it's been quite the process getting The Block ready for homeowner to move in - and does it ever look great! The final touches are now being installed and our team is prepping for some very excited homeowners to be moving in soon.

The letters to the homeowners on the first, second, and third floor new Calgary condos have been sent out, along with some of the townhomes; the other possession letters will follow soon after. The letters include a firm date for each homeowner to start moving in their things and starting a new chapter of their life at The Block!

As a homeowner, there are some things you'll need to get organized before you move in. This includes calling your lawyer to set up an appointment to sign documents, connecting with your financing representative, and setting up service installations (like electricity and cable/internet). We've provided a checklist included with your letter to help you through this process. You'll also need to book the elevator for your move-in date, by calling your condo coordinator.

]]>The showhome designers at Avi Urban are constantly reinventing how showhomes are decorated, and are always up on the latest trends in home décor. This season, they've been busy decorating the newest Avi Urban showhomes with one very stylish theme - international! Showhome decorator Marnie Galbraith shows how you can decorate your home to reflect your favourite destination.

International inspiration is what we're loving this season, because it brings in pieces inspired by travel and incorporates some very unique elements. Our latest and greatest showhome in the new Calgary townhomes in Edison at Walden is inspired by exotic travel and what we like to call Destination Tanzania. Here's how you get the look:

Try texture: The "international" look incorporates a bit of old world, restoration, reclaimed pieces, worn leathers, chunky woods and copious amounts of texture. Texture, texture, everywhere! From faux-hyde rug and textured wallpaper, to old wooden DIY crate shelves and store blankets. This travelers paradise is comfortable, casual and unique. Our inspiration came from vintage safari gear, the geography of the wilds, tribal patterns, and natural textures.

Choose clever features: A feature space in this unique showhome is an optional bonus space, which we staged as a home office. The end look is practical and worldly, while being lush and rich. We even added a simple DIY project by creating a cork backsplash for pinning items and keeping your exotic souvenirs or photos out for envy! (Scroll through the photos to see this DIY project).

Pick inspired accessories: We are seeing the influence of travel a lot in decorating these days. Trunks and postmark stamped toss pillows instantly give your space the sophistication of travel. Artwork is also a main way to transport your home; whether it be off to a serene safari, as we have chosen to do, or clean seascapes, this gives you a little break from the everyday.

Decorate with your favourite place: Another great way to add some 'overseas inspiration' is to find some items that really evoke the feeling of the destination nearest to your heart. We chose found items such as a canvas backpack, antique binoculars and cameras, antlers and textiles in the textures of the safari to really transport our clients. Have fun with it and be bold!

]]>http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/design-trend-international-inspiration/feed/0http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MayDesignTrends.jpg6 Ways to Get the Chic Hotel Lookhttp://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/6-ways-get-chic-hotel-look/
http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/6-ways-get-chic-hotel-look/#commentsFri, 23 May 2014 19:19:48 +0000http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/?post_type=blog&p=3614Getting that chic hotel look in your bedroom is easy, and it starts with linens.

]]>Our showhome decorators are savvy. They’re often taking something simple and making it into something smart, and they have plenty of cool ideas to make your place extra awesome.

Everywhere we go, we're seeing boutique hotel-inspired design. We love this look because it adds texture and luxury to a room, while still being full of character. Getting that chic hotel look in your bedroom is easy, and it starts with linens:

Start with a great set of sheets: White always looks crisp and generally freshens up décor and goes with any style. Quality sheets make a world of difference in how they lay and look, along with how they function after that first use.

Find fluffy duvets: We love fluffy duvets, the bigger the better. We like to use two, one for the main bedding and one folded lengthwise at the end of the bed. This technique adds add volume, while also helping add warmth in our cold winters!

Pick the right patterns: We like our duvet covers to accent each other. Choose one to be solid and one to be pattered, either or! Keep it fun, but make sure you keep your décor color in mind or this could get out of control. Don't have a maid? Well go ahead and roll down the main duvet cover- it will look like you do! We use this look all the time, its inviting and causally sophisticated.

Add texture with toss pillows: Next is the fun part- toss pillows! The men aren't as understanding about toss pillows, but boy oh boy they look great, add character and make it look 'oh so comfy!' Look for colors to continue the theme or color palette of the room, throwing in a few that are an accent pattern and texture.

Use plush and inviting touches: If you're wondering how to complete the hotel experience, look for plush towels all in the same color, whites or taupe's are the most 'spa' like. Roll a few on a guest bedroom with a fresh robe and slippers, if you never want your guests to leave!

Or treat yourself and enjoy a little 'stay-cation.' Get more inspiring ideas for making your bedroom look like a chic hotel on our Pinterest boards.

]]>http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/6-ways-get-chic-hotel-look/feed/0http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/ShowhomeDecorator-Tips-May.jpgEdison at Walden: Two New Showhomes Now Openhttp://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/edison-walden-two-new-showhomes-now-open/
http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/edison-walden-two-new-showhomes-now-open/#commentsThu, 22 May 2014 22:36:07 +0000http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/?post_type=blog&p=3615Our new showhomes in the south Calgary townhome community of Edison at Walden open on Saturday, May 24th at noon.

]]>After an incredible launch and the first homeowners just moved in, our new showhomes in the south Calgary townhome community of Edison at Walden open on Saturday, May 24th at noon.

Located at 283 Walden Drive SE, these three storey townhomes feature urban modern exteriors, two car attached garages with driveways for three car parking, and customizable options throughout. The showhomes feature the two bedroom 1,180 square foot Scarlet floorplan and three bedroom 1,381 square foot corner Carmine floorplan. The opening of two showhomes in this desirable community adds to the already incredible success of this development.

Avi Urban president, Charron Ungar, explains: "From the creation of the development concept we knew that Edison would be special. The transitional style blending both traditional and modern elements into one signature style was a risk, but one that was most definitely worth taking."

"The thing is, our Avi Urban buyers are as unique as our developments and the success we have seen so far is a testament to that," he continues. "Amazing diversity in an awesome development. I like that. Now that the showhomes are complete we will all have a chance to see why Edison is such a special place."

Townhomes in Edison at Walden range from 1,130 to 1,400 square feet and feature nine foot ceilings, two car attached garages, contemporary exteriors and incredible interior finishes. With pricing starting in the $300's, over 100 new homeowners have already chosen to call Edison home. Located in the modern south Calgary community of Walden, Edison sits just steps away from incredible local amenities, including a full retail plaza and new grocery store.

More information about Edison at Walden can be found at aviurban.com/Edison, or by calling (403)536-7236. Showhomes are located at 283 Walden Drive SE, and are open Monday-Thursday from 2pm-8pm, and weekends and holidays from 12pm-5pm.

]]>Well Spring weather is finally here, and now we are getting excited to start preparing our homeowners in Building 1 for moving into their new home at Sawyer in Silverado! Construction on all three Buildings is moving along and the site looks amazing. Here's a building by building update.

Building 1:

- Flooring complete on the first floor and it looks great!

- Lighting started this week on the first floor

- Plumbing fixtures are being installed this week on the first floor

- Painting has started this week on the second floor

- Cabinets & counter tops are being installed this week on the third floor

- Doors and trim are being installed this week on the third floor

- Stone work on the exterior has started and we just love the way it's looking!

- Site grading started this week

Building 3:

- Roof is complete

- Electrical rough-ins have been completed this week

- Drywall started this week on the first floor.

- Siding started this week

- Parkade ramp between building 2 and 3 is complete

Building 2:

- 3rd floor joists starts next week

- Back filling & weeping tile have started this week

Stay tuned for more exciting updates for Building 1 and as Building 2 and 3 progress, photos and updates will be posted often to keep you informed of our progress!

]]>http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/sawyer-silverado-may-2014-construction-update/feed/0http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/kitchen-white-Sawyer.jpgEdison at Walden: First Homeowners Move In!http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/edison-walden-first-homeowners-move/
http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/blog/blog/edison-walden-first-homeowners-move/#commentsThu, 15 May 2014 19:32:41 +0000http://felipe.avi2.drivedigital.net/?post_type=blog&p=3460Check out the video of the first homeowners moving into Edison at Walden with a special surprise by the Avi Urban team!

]]>The first homeowners moved into their new south Calgary townhome in Edison at Walden with a special surprise by the Avi Urban team! Clint Kniss and Todd Littlewood were the very first homeowners to take possession, and arrived to find over 60 Avi Urban employees and trade partners ready to welcome them on their front lawn.

The first possession event was hosted by Avi Urban to celebrate a milestone in the development and thank homeowners Kniss and Littlewood for being one of the first to own in Edison at Walden. Kniss is a site management coordinator, while Littlewood is an associate for mortgage specialists. They recently sold their south Calgary single family home, choosing to own in Edison at Walden for a more maintenance-free lifestyle that allows them to travel.

Driving up to their new home, they were not expecting to see the crowd outside.

"First we saw the signs on the road that said 'Welcome Clint and Todd' and 'Today is an exciting day'," explains Kniss, "then we turned the corner to see a lot of people around, and we thought 'this can't be all for us!'" Says Littlewood, "To see it was very welcoming, we felt important and appreciated."

"The first possession is a major milestone in our Edison development," shares Charron Ungar, president of Avi Urban. "Those individuals stepped forward and believed in our vision and trusted us to deliver an extraordinary product from the very beginning. It means a lot that we show our appreciation back to them for being so patient both in getting to this point and in the future as we work towards finishing the remaining portion of the development. Congratulations to both of them for being Edison's first homeowners to move in."

All homeowners in the first building have now taken possession, with the second building homeowners soon to follow. We're so excited to see people moving in and calling Edison home (with some homeowners already getting together for drinks at the Windsor Rose to celebrate!) Keep it locked to our Facebook page and blog for more information as possessions and construction continue.

]]>It’s raining, it’s pouring, but no one was snoring on site when I walked through Friday! Even in the rain the landscapers were busy pouring gravel and prepping the planters through out the building. There was definitely an excitement being on site seeing these new Calgary condo and townhomes get closer and closer to being completed. Here is the latest update on The Block:

First and second floors are in the process of touch ups and Avi Finals. The Avi Final is a third party service we use to walk through each home to ensure it's deficiency free and allows us to deliver a great home to you, once you do your own walk-through!

Third floor is in the finishing touches stage, with shower doors being installed this week. These homes are looking so awesome, and the finishing stage is where each apartment gets its own "personality" with your personalized selections being installed.

Fourth floor the electrical inspections are complete and are now being insulated, with drywall soon to follow. The ceilings on these homes are incredible, and drywall will really help to show how major the spaces ares!

All townhomes are drywalled and taped. North townhomes are being painted and the west townhome ceilings are being textured with painting to follow.

Parkade is complete with stall numbers painted and storage lockers installed. Interior walkway railings will be completely installed next week, check out the photos to see the railings that have already been installed. Don't they look amazing?

We are in the final stages which means we are getting closer to possessions! Nothing is final until official possession letters are recieved; as a homeowner, please make sure we have your correct information on file so we can contact you! We'll continue to post photos and updates on our Facebook page, so keep checking for the latest details on your new home.